Fungus-induced skin disorders are common conditions easily contracted through the environment. Fungi are a primitive vegetable, affirms Medline Plus, and live in the air, soil, on plants and in water. Some species actually live in the human body, but only half of them are actually harmful. Since these fungi can reproduce through the air, they often begin infection through the lungs and later emerge on the skin. Fungus is rather difficult to kill and requires the appropriate medication. Consult a medical professional immediately if a fungal infection is suspected.
Ringworm
Ringworm is a common skin condition caused by the fungus tinea corporis. It often appears as several patches on the skin all at once with a definitive ring-style formation surrounding normal skin. This fungus is extremely contagious, especially among children and the elderly, but can affect anyone. The symptoms include itchy, red, raised scaly patches that may or may not blister and ooze with fluid, affirms Medline Plus. Should ringworm affect the scalp region, known as tinea capitis, it causes bald spots due to the fungus infecting the hair follicle. You can treat ringworm using antifungal over-the-counter products, although a persistent case will require immediate medical attention. Washing sheets, hairbrushes and clothing helps to reduce contamination to others as well as other areas of the skin. Refrain from scratching ringworm lesions as it can infect the nail beds as well spread the fungus to other parts of the body, including the face.
Athlete's Foot
Athlete's foot, similar to ringworm, appears due to an infection caused by the tinea fungus. It is not dangerous but can be exceedingly irritating. Between the toes, itching, burning and cracked, and scaly skin emerges due to the dark, warm and moist environment. It can quickly spread to the toenails causing thickened and crumbling nail structure, asserts Medline Plus. The name "athlete's foot" is indicative of those who commonly acquire this fungus. Locker rooms and showers often house this fungus, and wearing flip-flops or other protective footwear helps to prevent infection. Consistently washing the feet and keeping them dry helps to inhibit proliferation of athlete's foot. Applying over-the-counter antifungal creams generally eliminates the problem, although severe cases require medical treatment.
Yeast Infection
Candida, also known as yeast, is a common body fungus that lives almost everywhere, according to Medline Plus. The body's immune system almost always keeps yeast levels in check, but in some cases, yeast can easily multiply and cause an uncomfortable condition. A yeast infection in the mouth called thrush appears as white patches and lesions in the cheek's inner lining. It can also infect the esophagus, known as esophagitis, in which difficulty in swallowing can occur. For women, a yeast infection causes vaginal itchiness, pain and thick discharge. Usual treatment includes antifungal topical applications should yeast infections of the skin occur, characterized by itching and rashes. Vaginal applications are also available over the counter. However, oral cavity yeast infections require immediate medical care for assessing severity and administering the proper medications. Should a yeast infection enter the bloodstream, the effects could be life threatening.
